Benefits Buzz January 2018

DOL Delays New Rules for Disability Benefit Claims

On Dec. 16, 2016, the Department of Labor (DOL) released a final rule to strengthen the claims and appeals requirements for plans that provide disability benefits and are subject to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA). That rule has been delayed until April 1, 2018.

According to the DOL, concerns were raised that the final rule will impair workers’ access to disability benefits by driving up costs and increasing litigation. During the delay, the DOL will review the final rule to determine whether it is unnecessary, ineffective or imposes costs that exceed its benefits.

Sponsors of ERISA plans that include disability benefits should continue to monitor the status of the final rule.

Protections for Disability Claimants

The final rule requires that plans, plan fiduciaries and insurance providers comply with additional procedural protections when dealing with disability benefit claimants. The final rule includes the following requirements for the processing of claims and appeals for disability benefits:

Plan Ahead with ACA Reporting

Under the ACA, every applicable large employer (ALE) and every entity that provides minimum essential coverage, such as a health insurance issuer or sponsor of a self-funded plan, must comply with certain reporting requirements.

The ACA reporting rules require filing of an annual return with the IRS and furnishing of individual statements to certain employees.

Returns are due in early 2018 for health plan coverage offered or provided in 2017. Returns for 2017 must be filed with the IRS by Feb. 28 (or April 2 if filed electronically, since March 31 is a Saturday). For the 2017 calendar year, written statements must be provided to employees no later than March 2, 2018.

Speak with us if you need any guidance on your 2017 filing requirements.

DID YOU KNOW?

The Republican tax bill passed the Senate, marking an end to the Affordable Care Act’s (ACA) individual mandate.

For how this may affect your employees or the health insurance marketplace, watch out for updates from TMC Employee Benefits Group.

Understanding the increased complexity of employee benefits is a challenge. Staying abreast of the issues you face and developing strategies to meet the constant demands of business can give you a competitive edge.